The players number eleven, divided as follows: - One goalkeeper, two backs, three half-backs, and five forwards (See plan of ground.) File:Plan of Bandy Ground.jpg As the object of the game is to obtain goals rather than prevent the opposing side from doing so, we will first consider the play of the forwards, the attacking force. These five players must act together, keeping about the same distance sideways from, and as a rule level with, each other; but when one of them is in possession of the ball the others may sometimes with advantage be a little in advance of him, provided they are not offside.